9 Female Shoe Designers Redefining Luxury—From Jimmy Choo to Amina Muaddi

Sky-high heels and dainty ballet flats have long been symbols of femininity, yet the luxury shoe game seems to be dominated by men.

No one can deny the genius of legendary shoe designers like Manolo Blahnik and Christian Louboutin, but the industry’s unsung heroes are definitely female designers. No one knows what a woman wants better than, well, a woman.

From black designers finally nailing inclusive nude pumps to a new wave of European designers combining fantasy with traditional craftsmanship, we’re sharing the trailblazing women who are dominating the shoe industry. Discover the top 9 female shoe designers you need to know below!

1. Sandra Choi (Jimmy Choo): Visionary Behind a Modern Luxury Powerhouse

The niece and long-time partner of brand founder Jimmy Choo, Sandra Choi, has been continuing the glamorous shoe label’s legacy since taking its reins in 2013.

Although Sandra didn’t establish the brand, she has been a vital part of transforming it into a global luxury shoe empire.

Sandra became the label’s first employee in 1989. She moved in with her aunt and uncle to pursue a career in fashion at the age of 17. She’s been in charge of curating Jimmy Choo’s swoon-worthy collections ever since.

Sandra Choi, creative director of Jimmy Choo, attends the FN Achievement Awards in a silky polka-dot ensemble paired with a metallic clutch (Credit: Julie Shea / Cover Images)

The label has become famous for its fairytale-like shoes, which have graced the feet of everyone from Princess Diana to Beyoncé.

But it’s Sandra who knew that Jimmy Choo could diversify beyond stilettos. The brand’s biker boots and sneakers remain highly sought after. For her flawless style and business prowess, Sandra has proved herself one of the world’s best shoe designers.

Jimmy Choo Youth II Biker Boots ($995), Azia Glitter Sandals ($895), and Diamond Light Sneakers ($550) showcase the brand’s range from rugged edge to red-carpet glam and everyday chic

Sandra Choi’s innovative leadership at Jimmy Choo has led to numerous notable collaborations and designs. For instance, the partnership with Mugler resulted in a collection that redefined sexy footwear, as detailed in our article on the Jimmy Choo x Mugler collaboration.

The creative alliance with Jean Paul Gaultier, featuring Kylie Minogue, showcased a fusion of iconic styles, which we explored in our coverage of the Jimmy Choo x Jean Paul Gaultier collaboration. These collaborations highlight Sandra Choi’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of luxury footwear design.

As creative director of Jimmy Choo, Sandra Choi has shaped the brand’s identity through daring collaborations, timeless red-carpet heels, and innovative design. Below are some of the standout moments we’ve covered on Your Next Shoes:

Spotlight on Sandra Choi’s Jimmy Choo Legacy

2. Sophia Webster: Whimsy, Inclusivity & Celebrity-Loved Heels

Often dubbed the ‘shoe designer for the supermodels,’ Sophia Webster’s eponymous label has skyrocketed into success over the past decade.

The British shoe designer is known for her whimsical and feminine designs—think endless butterfly motifs, fluffy accents, and a rainbow of colors.

Sophia Webster carries one of her playful statement bags while wearing a pastel outfit with a shimmering iridescent skirt (Credit: ACE / INFphoto)

Sophia Webster’s whimsical designs have captivated numerous celebrities. For instance, Nicole Scherzinger donned the ‘Chiara’ sandals during the X Factor Boot Camp, pairing them with a ruffled Emilio de la Morena dress. Similarly, Sophia Bush showcased the ‘Lilico’ floral sandals at a New York event.

Beyond her striking designs, Sophia Webster’s success is also a testament to her innovative and inclusive approach. In 2020, she became the first luxury shoe designer to expand her size range up to UK 13/US 16, breaking barriers in an industry often limited by traditional standards.

This bold move showcases her commitment to reimagining luxury footwear, not only in terms of aesthetics but also in accessibility, proving herself a true pioneer in both creativity and inclusivity.

Sophia Webster’s whimsical designs shine with the butterfly-winged Chiara Sandals ($850), playful Boss Lady Mid Sandals ($560), and colorful Flo Flamingo Sandals ($700)

Known for her whimsical butterfly heels, crystal sandals, and playful bridal designs, Sophia Webster has created some of the most distinctive shoes in contemporary fashion. Below are highlights we’ve covered on Your Next Shoes:

Spotlight on Sophia Webster’s Style Moments

3. Nina & Gvantsa Macharashvili (Mach & Mach): Crystal-Bow Party Shoes Redefined

The two sisters from Tbilisi have been making heads turn with their opulent party shoes. Nina and Gvantsa Macharashvili are the masterminds behind Mach & Mach’s already iconic crystal bow front shoes.

Harper’s Bazaar called the contemporary Cinderella shoes the year’s “unofficial party shoes.” The brand has become the go-to shoe choice for A-listers like Nicky Hilton, Elle Fanning, and Sydney Sweeney.

Sisters Nina and Gvantsa Macharashvili, founders of the Georgian footwear label Mach & Mach, pose with Nicky Hilton at an event celebrating their crystal-embellished designs (Credit: @machandmach / Instagram)

The sisters have grown a cult following for their futuristically feminine designs since the brand’s launch in 2012.

Their popularity has slowly expanded from their home country of Georgia into Europe. With their recent introduction stateside, the sisters’ dream of global domination is slowly but surely coming true.

Mach & Mach’s sparkling lineup includes the Glitter Double Crystal Bow Pointed Toe Pump ($1,079), the Hearts Crystal Double Bow Square Toe Slide Sandal ($1,035), and the Camille Crystal Bow Strappy Sandal ($1,120)

Known for its crystal-embellished bows, platforms, and glamorous statement heels, Mach & Mach has quickly become a favorite among celebrities and brides. Below are some of the standout features we’ve covered on Your Next Shoes:

Spotlight on Mach & Mach Moments

4. Jessie Loeffler Randall (Loeffler Randall): Women-Designed, Wearable Romance

Founded in 2005, Loeffler Randall has become a leading American accessories label, celebrated for its female-led team and chic, wearable designs crafted in its SoHo studio (pronounced LEF-ler RAN-dəl).

Jessie Loeffler Randall, who co-founded the family-owned footwear label Loeffler Randall with her husband in 2005, embodies the brand’s feminine, wearable elegance (Credit: @jessie_loeffler_randall / Instagram)

Jessie’s inspiration largely stems from her own work wardrobe. Her designs are chic yet practical. Playfully printed party shoes are made comfortable with sturdy block heels and adorned with eye-catching fabrics and textures.

If there ever was a brand for those who love dressing from the ground up, it’s Loeffler Randall.

Loeffler Randall’s signature romantic touch comes through in the Camellia Nova Floral Bow Heel ($395), the Mikel Dune Bow Mid-Heel Sandal ($295), and the Reed Beauty Pleated Twist Heel ($395)

Loeffler Randall is celebrated for its versatile mix of playful platforms, chic flats, and statement heels that celebrities often turn to for both casual and red-carpet style. Below are some of the standout Loeffler Randall moments we’ve covered on Your Next Shoes:

Spotlight on Loeffler Randall Features

5. Amina Muaddi: Sculptural Heels & New-Age Glamour

The Jordanian-Romanian designer is the queen of new-age glamour. Amina’s designs are a striking blend of avant-garde elegance and sleek minimalism. She’s famous for her use of bold colors, sculptural heels, and subtle yet dazzling embellishments.

In just four short years, she has become the shoe stylist of the stars. Her bold, French-designed, Italian-made shoes have been spotted on Vanessa Hudgens, Hailey Bieber, and Kendall Jenner.

Amina Muaddi attends a fashion show in Paris, turning heads in a sleek black patent-look coat with bold makeup and minimalist accessories (Credit: Abaca / INSTARimages / Cover Images)

Amina’s passion for groundbreaking style is evident in her designs, which is likely why her brand has found such rapid success.

She worked as a stylist for prestigious publications such as L’Uomo Vogue and GQ, studied shoemaking in Italy’s illustrious Riviera del Brenta region, and assisted French couturier Alexandre Vauthier before branching out on her own. Talk about doing your due diligence!

Amina Muaddi’s sculptural style is on full display with the crystal-embellished Gilda Sandals ($926), sleek Ami Leather Pumps ($775), and transparent Holli Glass PVC Slingback Pumps ($775)

If you’re tracking who’s redefining modern luxury footwear, Amina Muaddi stands out with her signature PVC heels, crystal-embellished mules, and bold sculptural pumps. Below are some of the standout features we’ve covered on Your Next Shoes:

Featured Amina Muaddi Moments & Styles

6. Rebecca Allen: Inclusive Nude Heels for Every Skin Tone

Rebecca Allen is among the many talented black women making waves in the fashion industry. The former financier left behind her corporate career to launch her label of inclusive nude shoes.

Rebecca Allen, who founded her namesake footwear brand after a decade-long search for stylish nude pumps, showcases her commitment to inclusive, versatile design (@rebeccaallenny / Instagram)

After a decade of searching for the perfect nude heel and failing, Rebecca knew it was time to take matters into her own hands.

Her eponymous label was launched to bring some much-needed representation for women of color into the shoewear world. Fans agree that Rebecca has succeeded in her goal. Her nude shoes are inclusive, timeless, comfortable, and versatile.

Rebecca Allen’s inclusive nude collection features The New Pump in Nude III ($265), The Two Strap Sandal in Nude IV ($275), and The Skim Flat in Nude IV ($265)

7. Emme Parsons: Quiet-Luxury Minimalism, Made in Tuscany

In a sea of extravagant princess heels, Emme Parsons is proving that less is often so much more. Her line of elegant, minimalist shoes has been well-received by celebrities and slow fashion enthusiasts alike.

Emme launched her line in 2017 after becoming a mother. She wanted to inspire her son to follow his dreams when he grew up, so she took the plunge of creating her own brand after years of working as an art director and graphic designer for Theory and Lucky magazine.

Designer Emme Parsons is recognized for her ultra-light, minimalist footwear that reimagines classic silhouettes with modern simplicity (Credit: @emmeparsons / Instagram)

Emme’s timeless shoes are designed for year-round wear and are specially crafted with thicker soles for enhanced durability. She values quality and function, which is why all of her shoes are handmade in Tuscany.

Her growing fan base includes sophisticated celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Gabrielle Union, and Chrissy Teigen.

Emme Parsons blends minimalism with craftsmanship in the Susan Sandal in Tobacco Nappa ($395) and the Ernest Fisherman Sandal in Hazelnut Calfskin ($475)

8. Mary Alice Malone (Malone Souliers): Feminine Craft with Signature Straps

Mary Alice Malone is the unexpected hero of the shoe design world. The Pennsylvania-born designer grew up on a farm and spent her childhood riding horses instead of paying attention to fashion trends.

Her earliest footwear memories weren’t glamorous—she often slipped into her older cousin’s worn-in boots. But everything changed when she moved to London to study at the prestigious Cordwainers, where her love of shoes found its true direction.

Mary Alice Malone launched the UK-based shoe brand in 2014, offering “a range of shoes and accessories, with a focus on an elevated style, a perfect fit, and beautiful silhouettes that celebrate the shape of the foot” (Credit: Anthony Devlin / PA Images / startraksphoto)

She now crafts sophisticated yet whimsical shoes that exude a sense of femininity. She takes classic shapes, such as pointed-toe pumps, and embellishes them with vibrant colors, rich textures, and metallic finishes.

Malone Souliers’ designs have been spotted on fashion darlings such as Blake Lively, Solange Knowles, and Kylie Jenner.

Malone Souliers highlights its signature craftsmanship with the Avis White Leather Ankle Boot ($835), Maureen Stiletto Mules ($625), and Marion Slingback Heels ($625)

If you’re tracking luxury brands that strike a balance between artistry and wearability, Malone Souliers remains a standout. From red carpet moments to bold street style, here’s how the brand has been spotlighted across Your Next Shoes.

Spotlight on Malone Souliers Moments

9. Charlotte Stone: California Color & Playful Platforms

The new go-to shoe designer for LA cool girls, Charlotte Stone’s playful designs epitomize laidback West Coast style.

Her easy silhouettes are enhanced by bold, bright colors and embellished with playful accents. The designer describes her shoes as fun but functional.

Charlotte Stone, a FIDM graduate who designed for Steve Madden and Joie, launched her colorful, eclectic footwear label in 2014 (Credit: Cleverla)

Although Charlotte’s shoes seem to be dripping with California sunshine, the designer herself is a Ventura transplant. The Ontario, Canada native moved to sunny California to launch her eponymous label.

Her background is impressive – Charlotte studied shoe craftsmanship in Tuscany before working for industry leader Steve Madden. Now, her own designs are being flaunted nationwide by trendsetters such as Solange Knowles and Brie Larson.

Charlotte Stone’s playful aesthetic comes through in the Raf Chunky Platform Sandals ($258), Rio Open-Toe Mules ($224), and Marlo Chunky Wooden Platform Clogs ($228)

As we celebrate the trailblazing women reshaping the shoe industry, it’s impossible not to acknowledge Stella McCartney’s influence in championing sustainability in fashion.

While not primarily a footwear designer, McCartney’s groundbreaking work with eco-friendly materials and cruelty-free practices, as explored in our article on sustainable and vegan shoe brands, sets a gold standard for conscious luxury. Her innovative use of plant-based leathers and commitment to reducing the industry’s environmental impact serve as a reminder that great design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a better future.

To wrap up, here are more brand stories and style deep-dives that readers of Your Next Shoes can explore:

Explore More Shoe Brand Features